Nature versus mankind has become a quintessential dichotomy of our modern age. However, when these two forces collide, our perspective of our environment is jarred open. Transporting us to an alternate reality where our complacency and acceptance of the world are challenged, are the sculptural works of Bill Battaglia Creations. Embracing the unexpected, Battaglia embarks on a metamorphosis where discarded objects from both man and nature are imbued with new life.
The Evolution of Battaglia’s Work
Ethereal, otherworldly, and surreal, Bill Battaglia’s design-oriented artistry manipulates the volatile qualities and ephemeral nature of materials to illuminate the beauty of the liminal spaces that surround us. Starting with repurposed wood and pieces of metal and glass, he creates entrancing fusions that subvert the familiarity of everyday materials. As his practice progresses, new mediums enter the conversations. From wood and glass, copper, brass, and materials of vibrant colors have made their way into his creations.
The Splash Technique and Glass Casting
Within his recent body of work, Battaglia employs a splash technique using molten copper to create gesturally and spontaneously formed shapes that are impossible to recreate. The aging process of the copper adds another layer of unpredictability to his pieces. He also utilizes glass casting, intertwining glass, copper, and other materials to create intuitive shapes within sand that are then filled with molten copper followed by molten glass. The resulting works are mounted onto reclaimed objects from nature, such as cracked stumps, playing with light absorption and refraction.
Exquisite Craftsmanship
It is within the nuances of his craft and curation of the final displays that Battaglia unveils the exquisite and uncanny that exist among us. The shimmering, refracting, and absorbing of light by the various elements in his sculptures create a captivating and mesmerizing experience for viewers. Each piece tells a unique story, showcasing the artist’s creativity and mastery of materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bill Battaglia Creations take us on a journey of exploration and discovery, inviting us to see the world through a different lens. His innovative use of materials and techniques challenges our perceptions of art and nature, blurring the lines between the two. Through his artistic wonders of redwood sculpture, Battaglia reminds us of the beauty that can be found in the unexpected and the extraordinary. Visit his studio and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring world of sculptural artistry.